URBANA – Richard Herman, former chancellor at the University of Illinois' Urbana campus, removed himself from consideration as the next president of New Mexico State University on Tuesday.

"We just decided it wasn't the right thing at this time. (Wife) Susan and I thought they were very gracious people doing some wonderful things, but this just isn't the right time," Herman said Wednesday.

Herman, who resigned last month after weeks of reports about admissions favoritism at the University of Illinois, declined to comment about whether he was interested in any other university positions, or whether search committees had contacted him.

"I'll just take it one day at a time," Herman said.

According to a New Mexico State University press release, Herman said his decision is based on other obligations that will prevent him from continuing as a candidate. He expressed his good wishes for NMSU's future successes.

"I understand and respect Dr. Herman's decision," NMSU Board of Regents Chairman Blake Curtis said in the press release. "We have a pool of fully qualified candidates and our selection process will continue as planned. On Nov. 19 we have a special Board of Regents meeting scheduled. It is our intent to announce our next president at that time."

Herman told The News-Gazette he has nothing but praise for interim Provost Robert Easter, whose duties may include interim chancellor after the UI Board of Trustees meets Thursday in Springfield.

Herman visited NMSU on Nov. 1 and held student, faculty, staff and press forums on Nov. 2. He resigned as UI chancellor in late October.

Four presidential candidates remain, according to NMSU, and the Board of Regents is set to make its final decision on Nov. 19.